With the Yankees desperate for starting pitching, the very busy Oakland Athletics could prove to be an important trade partner as the Winter Meetings in Orlando, Florida draw near. Brett Anderson is said to be on the trading block and the Yankees are among the teams interested in acquiring the left-hander, according to Jeff Passan.
Anderson, the 25-year-old five-year veteran, has not pitched a full season since 2010 when he posted a 2.80 ERA in 112.1 innings. He has only thrown 160 total innings in the last three seasons that have been derailed by injury, making him an interesting buy low candidate on the trade market. Anderson is far from a sure thing, but has been successful when healthy. His recent injury issues will likely prevent him from costing too much in the way of top prospects to acquire and, even though he is far from a sure thing, the team willing to take a chance on him could end up with a nice return if he finds a way to put it together.
The Yankees may not be able to take such a risk when they need some stability in their pitching rotation. Still, the former second round pick could provide a boost if he proves to be healthy in 2014 and beyond. It would be a risky acquisition, of course. Teams, including the Yankees, will need to decide whether or not he is worth that gamble.
Would you be willing to put up something of value on the hope that he can return to a healthy, successful pitcher at a potentially low cost, or do you think the Yankees should pursue a player that is more of a sure bet at a higher price?
